How Do You Spell MERCAPTAN?

Pronunciation: [mˈɜːkaptən] (IPA)

The word "Mercaptan" is spelled with a combination of letters that may be challenging to pronounce correctly. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled as /mərˈkæptən/, with the emphasis on the second syllable. The "mer" and "cap" sounds are straightforward, but the "t" and "an" sounds at the end can be challenging. It's important to pronounce all syllables in this word precisely to ensure accurate communication, especially if you work in a field where mercaptans are frequently discussed, such as chemistry.

MERCAPTAN Meaning and Definition

1. Mercaptan, also known as thiols, are a group of organic chemical compounds that contain a sulfur atom bonded to a hydrogen atom (SH group) and are characterized by their distinct, pungent odor similar to that of skunk spray or rotten eggs. The word "mercaptan" is derived from the Latin phrase "mercurium captans," which translates to "capturing mercury," alluding to their historical use in the detection of mercury vapors.

   These compounds are widely found in nature, such as in the odor of skunks or the scent of garlic and onions. Mercaptans play important roles in various fields, including chemistry, industry, and biological processes. In the chemical industry, they are used as additives or intermediates in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, dyes, and polymers due to their chemical activity and wide reactivity range. Additionally, their strong odor makes mercaptans valuable as odorants in natural gas pipelines, as they allow for the easy detection of leaks.

   From a biological standpoint, mercaptans are produced during the metabolism of certain foods by microorganisms residing in the human gut. This process can result in foul-smelling breath, urine, or sweat. Furthermore, some mercaptans are produced by specific cells in the body as defense mechanisms against pathogens.

   To summarize, mercaptans refer to organic chemical compounds characterized by their pungent odor, containing a sulfur atom bonded to a hydrogen atom. They are utilized in various industries and biological processes, and their distinctive scent allows for easy detection and identification.

2. Thioalcohol, a class of substances in which the oxygen of an alcohol has been replaced by sulphur; they form white compounds with mercuric oxide.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. A chemical substance in the form of a liquid, composed of sulphur, carbon, and hydrogen-so named from its very energetic action on mercury.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for MERCAPTAN

• nercaptan
• kercaptan
• jercaptan
• mwrcaptan
• msrcaptan
• mdrcaptan
• mrrcaptan
• m4rcaptan
• m3rcaptan
• meecaptan
• medcaptan
• mefcaptan
• metcaptan
• me5captan
• me4captan
• merxaptan
• mervaptan
• merfaptan
• merdaptan
• merczptan

Etymology of MERCAPTAN

The word "mercaptan" derives from the Latin term "mercurium captāns", which translates to "seizing mercury". The term was originally coined by the Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele in the early 18th century to describe compounds that contained sulfur and had a strong, unpleasant odor resembling that of rotten cabbage or garlic. The name "seizing mercury" was given to these compounds due to their ability to combine with and "seize" mercury ions. Over time, the term evolved into "mercaptan" as it is known today.

Plural form of MERCAPTAN is MERCAPTANS